Rawalpindi: Section 144 Imposed Ahead of PTI Protests
The Rawalpindi district administration has imposed Section 144 of the CrPC, banning public gatherings, sit-ins, and protests across the district from April 6 to April 20. The order was issued ahead of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)’s planned protest outside Adiala Jail on Tuesday and a separate demonstration on April 9.
According to the order, obtained from the office of Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema, intelligence reports indicated a potential threat to public safety, particularly near sensitive installations, major roads, and critical infrastructure.
The Deputy Commissioner’s office stated that certain groups were reportedly mobilising with intentions to disturb law and order through large assemblies, protests, or violent actions. The restrictions therefore prohibit gatherings of five or more persons, the display of arms (except by law enforcement), objectionable or hate speech, and the carrying of weapons, explosives, or any objects that could be used violently. Pillion-riding and the use of loudspeakers are also banned under the order.
The PTI has traditionally held sit-ins near the prison on Tuesdays and Thursdays, which are court-designated days for visiting party founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The party has called for a “peaceful protest” today against restrictions on meetings with Imran Khan and announced a larger gathering on April 9 to mark the anniversary of his ouster in 2022.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi stated that the April 9 protest is intended to highlight concerns regarding democratic backsliding, economic decline, inflation, and delays in hearings of Imran Khan’s cases, including the alleged inhumane detention of him and his wife. Afridi also said his convoy would travel from Peshawar to Rawalpindi at 11 a.m. on April 9, with participants joining from various districts.
The district administration emphasized that the measures are essential to ensure the safety of citizens and protect critical infrastructure from potential threats.
